Since the beginning of 2022, the minimum wage in Ukraine has increased from 6500 to 8647 UAH. This is an increase of 2147 UAH, or approximately 33%. However, the rise in the prices of certain goods and rental costs significantly outpaced this growth. This is reported by Znaj.ua.
The increase was uneven. In 2023 and 2025, the indicator was not reviewed, while in 2024, it was increased twice. In 2026, the minimum wage rose from 8000 to 8647 UAH, which is about 8.1%.
How the minimum wage and related payments have changed
When comparing the current amount with 6700 UAH at the end of 2022, the increase is about 29.1%. Therefore, the percentage increase depends on which date is chosen for comparison.
The minimum wage affects not only labor payment. Certain taxes, insurance contributions, and social guarantees are tied to it. In particular, the minimum insurance contribution at the standard EU rate in 2026 is 1902.34 UAH per month: 8647 UAH × 22%.
At the same time, a higher received salary does not mean a proportional increase in purchasing power. If everyday expenses rise faster than income, the increase does not compensate for the price hikes.
The problem of losing purchasing power was also raised during the discussion of military payments and prices. To assess income, not only the amount in hryvnias is important, but also the number of goods and services that can be purchased for it.
Why the increase in the minimum wage does not cover price hikes
As an example, the publication cites herring: the stated price per kilogram rose from 108.92 UAH in 2022 to 233.51 UAH in 2026. This is approximately a 114.4% increase, while the minimum wage increased by about a third during the same period.
Another example concerns rent. According to the data provided in the material, a one-room apartment in Kyiv cost 7637 UAH in 2022, while in 2026 it was about 16 thousand UAH. The latter amount is approximately 1.85 times the minimum wage before tax.
These examples show the dynamics of individual expenses, but do not replace the calculation of overall inflation. From them, it is not possible to determine how the purchasing power of all Ukrainians has changed.
Separately, the increase in the minimum wage in 2027 is discussed. The mentioned level of 12 thousand UAH is a proposal, so it cannot be presented as an already approved payment.